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The Confederation of British Industry (CBI), one of the UK’s most influential business advocacy groups, has reached a settlement in a legal dispute with its former leader, Tony Danker.
Danker’s tenure at the CBI ended abruptly last year following allegations regarding his conduct during his time as director general. These allegations, revealed in March 2023, stemmed from both formal and informal complaints made by junior staff members.
A spokesperson for the CBI stated, “The CBI has today reached a settlement in the legal action initiated by Tony Danker following his dismissal in April 2023. The CBI board has agreed to an undisclosed settlement with Mr. Danker.”
Furthermore, the spokesperson clarified, “The CBI board reaffirms that Mr. Danker has no involvement in the historical allegations reported in the media, which occurred prior to his leadership at the CBI, and denies any such connection.”
Danker was terminated by the CBI in April 2023 after an investigation into workplace misconduct allegations. These specific allegations were distinct from those uncovered later by an investigation into conduct within the lobby group.
In response to his dismissal, Danker expressed his dismay in a statement on social media, highlighting his lack of prior knowledge regarding the incidents predating his tenure. He emphasized, “I was appalled to learn about them for the first time last week … I was nevertheless shocked to learn this morning that I had been dismissed from the CBI, instead of being invited to put my position forward as was originally confirmed.”
The CBI had initiated an investigation through a law firm after being approached by the Guardian newspaper regarding a formal complaint filed in January, alongside several informal reports concerning Danker’s behavior.
Danker, upon learning of his dismissal, expressed regret for making colleagues uncomfortable, stating, “I was truly sorry.”
In addition to Danker’s case, separate complaints unrelated to his personal conduct emerged in 2023. These complaints involved allegations of sexual misconduct by senior figures at the organization, made by more than a dozen women.